MKS Instruments Inc (MKSI)vsMesa Laboratories Inc (MLAB)
MKSI
MKS Instruments Inc
$301.65
-8.65%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $24.02B
MLAB
Mesa Laboratories Inc
$104.38
-2.14%
TECHNOLOGY · Cap: $573.99M
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
MKS Instruments Inc generates 1535% more annual revenue ($4.07B vs $249.13M). MKSI leads profitability with a 8.0% profit margin vs 2.7%. MKSI trades at a lower P/E of 74.6x. MKSI earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 61/100 (C+).
MKSI
Buy61
out of 100
Grade: C+
MLAB
Avoid30
out of 100
Grade: F
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-75.4%
Fair Value
$147.68
Current Price
$301.65
$153.97 premium
Margin of Safety
+64.0%
Fair Value
$253.18
Current Price
$104.38
$148.80 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Earnings expanding 53.2% YoY
15.2% revenue growth
No standout strengths identified
Areas to Watch
Premium valuation, high expectations priced in
Distress zone — elevated risk
2.6% revenue growth
Smaller company, higher risk/reward
ROE of 3.6% — below average capital efficiency
2.7% margin — thin
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : MKSI
The strongest argument for MKSI centers on EPS Growth, Revenue Growth. Revenue growth of 15.2% demonstrates continued momentum. PEG of 1.32 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : MLAB
MLAB has a balanced fundamental profile.
Bear Case : MKSI
The primary concerns for MKSI are P/E Ratio, Altman Z-Score. A P/E of 74.6x leaves little room for execution misses.
Bear Case : MLAB
The primary concerns for MLAB are Revenue Growth, Market Cap, Return on Equity. A P/E of 85.9x leaves little room for execution misses. Thin 2.7% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
MKSI profiles as a growth stock while MLAB is a value play — different risk/reward profiles.
MKSI carries more volatility with a beta of 2.00 — expect wider price swings.
MKSI is growing revenue faster at 15.2% — sustainability is the question.
MKSI generates stronger free cash flow (28M), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
MKSI scores higher overall (61/100 vs 30/100) and 15.2% revenue growth. MLAB offers better value entry with a 64.0% margin of safety. Both earn "Buy" and "Avoid" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
MKS Instruments Inc
TECHNOLOGY · SCIENTIFIC & TECHNICAL INSTRUMENTS · USA
MKS Instruments, Inc. provides instruments, systems, subsystems, and process control solutions that measure, monitor, deliver, analyze, power, and control critical parameters of manufacturing processes globally. The company is headquartered in Andover, Massachusetts.
Visit Website →Mesa Laboratories Inc
TECHNOLOGY · SCIENTIFIC & TECHNICAL INSTRUMENTS · USA
Mesa Laboratories, Inc. designs, manufactures, and markets quality control instruments and disposable products in the United States, Europe, Asia, North America, and internationally. The company is headquartered in Lakewood, Colorado.
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